Sleet and snow could hit parts of the North East this week. Forecasters are warning that unsettled weather could be here to stay and even last over the Easter weekend.

Gales and downpours lashed parts of the North and West of the country on Saturday, while parts of the borders suffered from 71mph winds.

And the Met Office is predicting further bad weather with wintry showers on higher ground expected.

Forecaster Nicola Willis said: “The next few days are going to be windy throughout the UK. We have a band of heavy rain moving in from Wales and the South West and moving across England.

“We are expecting quite windy, breezy conditions.”

Ms Willis added: “There are more difficult driving conditions. It is starting to get to the Easter holidays and there are a lot of caravans and vehicles on the roads. So we are preparing for some slight disruption to travel.”

Wintry showers bringing sleet and snow could hit higher parts of the North on Sunday and Monday.

And while the wind and rain is expected to ease off at the tail-end of the week, forecasters warned they are expecting showers to strike over the bank holiday weekend.

RAC spokesman Pete Williams said: “With storms, heavy rain and high winds battering much of the west of the UK over the weekend, motorists are warned to be prepared for some risky conditions on the roads.

“The RAC anticipates that over 16m people are planning to take to the roads across the Easter bank holiday next weekend.

“But many families are also taking advantage of the end of the school term this weekend to grab an early staycation so they may be surprised that winter still has some surprises up its sleeve.

“Drivers are advised to allow extra time for their journey and consider alternative routes in case of delays or congestion.

“In strong winds drivers should reduce their speed and leave plenty of distance between their car and the vehicle in front.

“Strong winds are never constant so it is best to hold the steering wheel firmly and be prepared for sudden gusts of wind.

“Also allow additional room when overtaking cyclists, motorcyclists and lorries as they are susceptible to being buffeted by the wind.”